This is a fully funded PhD (fees and bursary) in propulsion system aerodynamics in collaboration with EPSRC, Rolls-Royce and Cranfield University. Further improvements in the aerodynamics and design of future civil aero-engines will play a key role in reducing fuel burn and emissions. One of the key areas of interest is the design of compact powerplants and the aerodynamics of the intake/fan system. This project will focus on improving the intake aerodynamic design systems in terms of design optimisation as well as computational modelling.

    The research will focus on the aerodynamics of coupled intake/fan systems for podded aero-engines. Improvements in the design processes as well as the computational modelling are needed to deliver fuel burn reductions that are required to meet NetZero targets. Previous work at Cranfield has developed intake aerodynamic design methods and computational studies which will form the basis for this PhD programme.

    Current aerodynamic design methods may not provide the best solutions to reduce fuel burn due to long design times and limits of modelling fidelity. This research will address the engineering science and technology gaps in the underpinning aerodynamic design approaches and computational modelling. The overall aim is to reduce design optimisation time scales and technical risk.

    The main impact of the work will be through Rolls-Royce where it will enable improvements to the powerplant aerodynamic design capability for aero-engine intakes. Unique opportunities for conference attendance, international workshops and industrial placements within Rolls-Royce are part of the programme.

    The work will be conducted through the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre based at Cranfield which has a strong collaborative history with Rolls-Royce in the area of aero-engine aerodynamics. This programme provides the PhD candidate with an outstanding opportunity to work closely with Rolls-Royce engineers across a range of disciplines for the development of future aerospace technologies and capabilities. During the PhD programme there will be regular reviews and presentation opportunities with Rolls-Royce as well as the chance to attend specialist MSc modules if needed.

At a glance

  • Application deadline20 May 2026
  • Award type(s)PhD
  • Start date28 Sep 2026
  • Duration of award3.5 years
  • EligibilityUK, Rest of world
  • Reference numberCRAN-0060

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree or equivalent in a related discipline. This project would suit students with an aerospace or mechanical engineering background. Experience of computational fluid dynamics, compressible flow, aerodynamic analysis and optimisation would be an advantage. Broader experience of engineering computational modelling and optimisation methods would also be and advantage. As part of this role you may be required to obtain UK Security Clearance.

Funding

This studentship is open to both Home and Overseas fee status students, however we are only permitted to offer a limited number of studentships to students with Overseas fee status. Eligibility for Home fee status is determined with reference to UK Department for Education rules. As a guiding principle UK or Irish nationals who are ordinarily resident in either the UK or Republic of Ireland pay Home tuition fees. All other students (including those from the Channel Islands and Isle of Man) pay Overseas fees. Further advice can be found on the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website.

Sponsored by EPSRC, Cranfield University and Rolls Royce, this studentship will provide a starting bursary of up to £25,000 (tax free) plus fees* for three and a half years

Diversity and Inclusion at Cranfield

We are committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion in our CDT program, and warmly encourage applications from students of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups. We particularly welcome students with disabilities, neurodiverse individuals, and those who identify with diverse ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, and socioeconomic statuses. Cranfield strives to provide an accessible and inclusive environment to enable all doctoral candidates to thrive and achieve their full potential. 

At Cranfield, we value our diverse staff and student community and maintain a culture where everyone can work and study together harmoniously with dignity and respect. This is reflected in our University values of ambition, impact, respect and community. We welcome students and staff from all backgrounds from over 100 countries and support our staff and students to realise their full potential, from academic achievement to mental and physical wellbeing. 

We are committed to progressing the diversity and inclusion agenda, for example; gender diversity in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) through our Athena SWAN Bronze award and action plan, we are members of the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) and Working Families, and sponsors of International Women in Engineering Day. We are also Disability Confident Level 1 Employers and members of the Business Disability Forum and Stonewall University Champions Programme. 

Cranfield Doctoral Network

Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network. This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.

How to apply

For further information please contact:

Name: Prof. David MacManus 

Email: d.g.macmanus@cranfield.ac.uk

Phone: +44 1234 754735

If you are eligible to apply for this studentship, please complete the online application form.

Please note that applications will be reviewed as they are received. Therefore, we encourage early submission, as the position may be filled before the stated deadline.